New York certainly has no shortage of unsightly scaffolding[3] on its streets, but what if all of that unused area could be turned into mini pop-up parks? A green initiative called Softwalks[4] has come up with a way to use existing scaffolding as support stations for fun and lively modular public spaces using their awesome little DIY kits[5] that contain easy-to-build pieces such as a chair, a counter, and a green trellis[6]. The components latch onto the metal beams to create simple impromptu hang-outs and rest stops for busy city dwellers, making the possibilities for sidewalk beautification endless.

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The Softwalks initiative was born out of the MFA Transdisciplinary Design[9] program at Parsons, The New School[10]. Students were inspired by the Department of Transportation’s[11] amazing makeover of the city’s traffic heavy areas into giant pedestrian walkways like in areas like Herald Square and Times Square[12]. The group banded together and created simple kits with chair pieces, a counter, a light fixture, a planter, and a green trellis[13] that anyone can pick up and install onto the beams of their nearest scaffolded area[3]. The initiative aims to transform nearly 6,000 construction sites, equalling 189 miles of covered sidewalk.

The project’s greatest aspect is that anyone can get involved. The kit pieces are modular [14]and lightweight, making them easy to install, take down, and reuse in new areas. The kits also create a public art activity, involving the community to brighten up their construction-heavy[15] areas. Whether its a coffee break spot or a new community garden, Softwalks allows anyone to activate a once drab sidewalk shed into a fun and functional public space.